A growing body of research points to evidence that many traumatic brain injuries (TBI) have the potential to result in lasting, long-term effects. A considerably wide range of potential long-term outcomes are possible for varying types of brain injury patients – even those who sustain a single, serious concussion.
It is more widely accepted that multiple concussion injuries lead to long-term consequences such as significant cognitive and psychological impairment, but a growing body of evidence supports the theory that even one serious concussion could change the brain’s chemistry enough to cause a higher likelihood of experiencing mood disorders or depression issues later in life.
Traumatic Brain Injury and Long-Term Effects
Brain injury studies continue to link long-term brain damage, such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and dementia, with severe concussions and traumatic brain injuries. However, evidence now exists that even a single moderate to severe concussion could yield a greater risk of psychological deficits as a person ages.
Some traumatic brain injury patients experience chronic, life-long consequences. Each person’s brain is vastly unique and heals differently. The long term outcomes of two patients with similar brain injuries could vary considerably to include differences in symptom severity and duration, both in the months after the injury and in the later years of life. One patient may make a full recovery while the other struggles with depression and anxiety as an older adult. Every brain responds to damage and injury differently.
Potential Long-Term Effects of Brain Injuries
Permanent or chronic effects of a single or multiple brain injuries can include any combination of the impairments listed here:
- Behavior
- Depression or anxiety
- Impulsiveness or irritability
- Loss of energy or motivation
- Pain
- Chronic headaches
- Muscle or joint pain
- Tingling or stinging from nerve dysfunction
- Energy / Arousal
- Issues with loss of consciousness
- Daytime sleepiness or Insomnia
- Cognition / Mental Processing
- Shortened attention span
- Decreased memory or comprehension
- Decrease critical thinking or planning
- Sensory
- Blurred vision
- Sound or light sensitivity
- Difficulty with balance
- Hearing loss
Coping with the Outcomes of a Head Injury
Those living with permanent or chronic ailments due to a serious concussion or other traumatic brain injury might benefit from better understanding their symptoms and knowing how to address them. Help and new treatment options currently exist for many different types of symptoms and conditions. Patients may wish to consider new courses of action such as attending support group meetings or consulting with a dietician to eat for better brain health.
A variety of help and therapeutic treatments are available for those living with the effects of a traumatic brain injury. Many new, evolving options exist in the areas of treating pain and coping with mental condition. Anyone with questions about long-term treatment options or wishing to know more about the latest treatment options can start by speaking with an experienced traumatic brain injury specialist or counselor.
References:
NPR – Can Just One Concussion Change the Brain?
Neuro International
